South Africans will need a visa to travel to the United States. This guide covers everything you need to know, from what documents you will need to visa fees. You will start the application process by completing an online application on ceac.state.gov and then attend an interview at the US Consulate General in Cape Town
Cape Town
Cape Town is a legislative capital of South Africa, colloquially named the Mother City. It is the legislative capital of South Africa and primate city of the Western Cape province. It forms part of the City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and one of the 50 largest urban areas in the world. It is the provincial capital and largest city of Gauteng, which is the wealthiest province in South Africa. While Johannesburg is not one of South Africa's three capital cities, it is the seat of the Co…
Durban
Durban is the third most populous city in South Africa—after Johannesburg and Cape Town—and the largest city in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal. Located on the east coast of South Africa, Durban is famous for being the busiest port in the country. It is also seen as one of the major …
Full Answer
Does an US citizen need visa to visit South Africa?
US citizens planning a short-term holiday or business trip to South Africa do not currently need a visa. This is because the United States is on the list of 47 countries whose citizens can enter the state via a visa exemption scheme, in accordance with South Africa’s visa policy. US citizens holding a valid national passport can enter South Africa for up to 90 days at any port of arrival.
How far is South Africa from the US?
This air travel distance is equal to 8,945 miles. The air travel (bird fly) shortest distance between United States and South Africa is 14,396 km= 8,945 miles. If you travel with an airplane (which has average speed of 560 miles) from United States to South Africa, It takes 15.97 hours to arrive.
What are the requirements to travel to South Africa?
Some examples are:
- An official child passport with the information of both parents that has been issued by the relevant authority in its respective jurisdiction;
- A signed letter issued by a foreign governing body, including a foreign embassy;
- A letter signed and issued by the Director-General of the Department of Home Affairs of the Republic of South Africa.
What are the Visa requirements for South Africa?
- A valid South African passport
- A scanned copy of the biographical section of the passport
- A recent passport-style photograph of the applicant
- Proof of sufficient funds, such as a bank statement, to cover the trip
- A document validating the purpose of travel, such as an invitation letter
- Proof of travel insurance
How much is visa from South Africa to USA?
Visas and Temporary Residence PermitsPort of Entry/Visitor's Visa$36.00Treaty Visa$36.00Medical Visa$36.00Retired Person's Visa$36.00Business Visa (More than 90 days)$127.0010 more rows
How does a South African apply for a US visa?
The process involves: Making an appointment at a South African embassy or consulate in the US. Filling out the South Africa visa application form correctly. Gathering a range of supporting documents depending on the visa type. Attending a consular interview to hand in the documents and pay the visa fee.
How long does it take to get a visa for USA from South Africa?
5 to 15 working daysA visa can take 5 to 15 working days from application to approval. We do however recommend that you apply for your visa as soon as possible to allow for any unforeseen circumstances such as needing to supply additional paperwork or an application refusal.
Is the US issuing visas to South Africans?
Important Information Regarding Visas. Non-Immigrant Visa Operating Status: The U.S. Consulates General in South Africa are accepting and processing non-immigrant visa applications from individuals physically present in South Africa, including third country nationals.
How much bank balance is required for US tourist visa?
The amount of bank balance you should have for applying to the US tourist visa depends on the duration. If it is a 15-day trip, you must have $ 5,000-10,000 in your bank. Is travel insurance compulsory for the US travel visa? No, travel insurance is not compulsory for the US travel visa.
Is it hard to get a US visa?
Although the application process for a visitor visa is fairly simple, successfully obtaining it is harder than you might expect. The U.S. State Department, via its consulates around the world, denies a surprising number of visitor visa applications.
Can I get US visa without interview?
You may be eligible to apply for a U.S. visa without an interview based on your age, or if you are renewing a prior U.S. visa. Currently, we are accepting Interview Waiver applications only for crew members (C1/D) from international airlines and cruise/ships and students (F-1).
What do I need to apply for a USA visa?
US Visa RequirementsAn online nonimmigrant DS-160 application form. You can file the form DS-160 here.Your valid passport. ... One photograph. ... Receipt proving payment of $160 for a nonimmigrant US visa application. ... Social media details.
Do I need to book my flight before applying for a US visa?
Do I Need to Book a Flight Ticket Before Applying for a Visa? No. You don't have to buy a flight ticket before you apply for a visa. Instead, you can present a flight itinerary which you can book without paying the full price of the travel ticket and once you obtain your visa you can purchase the real flight ticket.
Is USA open for travel from South Africa?
Yes. Domestic and international air travel is operating within South Africa.
Are US visa appointments open in South Africa?
The U.S. Consulates General in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town have non-immigrant visa appointments available. Please continue to monitor the online appointment schedule, https://ais.usvisa-info.com/ , for appointments as they become available. New appointments are sporadically opened, but may get taken quickly.
How long does it take for a US visa to be approved?
How long are the U.S. visa application processing times? It is hard to give a general statement about what visa processing times you can expect. The entire visa application processing takes somewhere between two weeks and four months, depending on the type of visa.
What are the requirements to get a US visa?
Here are the required documents for a US visa:An online nonimmigrant DS-160 application form. You can file the form DS-160 here.Your valid passport. ... One photograph. ... Receipt proving payment of $160 for a nonimmigrant US visa application. ... Social media details.
How do I book a US visa appointment in South Africa?
The U.S. visa application process in South Africa is two-fold: Complete visa application form (DS-160) at https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ . Pay and schedule your U.S. visa appointment at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-za/niv . You won't be able to pay until an appointment is available.
What are the documents required for US visa?
Documents required for U.S D visaCompleted DS-160 application form.Your passport with at least one blank page to be able to affix visa.One photograph fulfilling the requirements set by the U.S authorities.Proof of having paid transit visa fees.Interview confirmation page and its copy.More items...
How long does it take to approve a US visa?
How long are the U.S. visa application processing times? It is hard to give a general statement about what visa processing times you can expect. The entire visa application processing takes somewhere between two weeks and four months, depending on the type of visa.
How long does a South African passport last?
A South African passport with at least 6 months of validity after the date of your travels to the USA. Tips for when you travel to the US: Not everybody supports Trump - in fact, the majority don't. Don't tease those with a southern accent. They don't use the metric system.
What is a given name in South Africa?
The term "given name" is the same as what's commonly called a "first name" in South Africa. Then click "Continue". You'll then need to enter your Given Names and Full Name. Naturally, this must be exactly the same as in your passport, or else you'll run into problems later.
How long is a visa valid for?
Whilst it is a mission getting the visa, what's great is that they often make it valid for 10 years, unlike for instance a Schengen visa which is only valid for the period of your visit. And you can also stay for longer - up to 6 months (and can apply for an extension).
What is an H-2B visa?
The H-2B Visa allows workers to come to the US on a temporary basis, working in the non-agricultural sectors, typically on low wages.
Where is the Cape Town consulate?
The Cape Town consulate is at number 2 Reddam Avenu, Steenberg e in Westlake. Their email address is [email protected] and their landline is 021-702-7300. We suggest parking at Steenberg Village shopping centre and walking to the consulate.
Which country has the highest refusal rate for B visas?
This is a better performance than Australia (15%) and far better than Cuba, which has the highest refusal rate of 82%.
Can South Africans travel to the USA?
The good news is, that if you're not a Mexican criminal then there's a chance you could be blessed with a visa. And yes, in case you're wondering, South Africans do require a visa to visit the USA. And no, you won't be asked whether your support Trump.
When did South Africa migrate to the US?
The largest wave of immigration from South Africa to America was in 1994 after the election of Nelson Mandela. The United States is the thrid most popular destination for South Africans, just behind the United Kingdom and Australia. Read more. South Africa to US.
What is the phone number for South Africa?
Call: 1.866.449.5904. Learn the various pathways of immigration to the United States, including family-sponsorship and employment from South Africa.
What is Southern African Community USA?
Southern African Community USA: a non-profit organization created to promote Southern African culture and unite those communities in the USA. South Africa Partners: South Africa Partners unlocks the collaborative potential between South Africa and the United States for equitable access to healthcare and education.
What is happening in South Africa in 2021?
Current 2021 South Africa Situation There are deadly protests happening in South Africa after former leader, Jacob Zuma, was arrested. If you are looking to immigrate out of South Africa as soon as possible please book a consultation so we can look at your options.
What is African Fest USA?
African Fest USA – African Fest USA is an independent collaborative of professionals for the advancement of African culture in the US.
What is the phone number for a visa payment?
Credit card payments. For credit card payments, you can call the Visa Information Service Center (VISC) on 087 550 2160 during business hours, or visit the US Department of State Visa Appointment Service website to make payment and to schedule your appointment.
Can I travel to the US with a visa?
A visa allows you to travel to a US port of entry (i. e. airport), but does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, US Customs and Border Protection officials at the airport have authority to deny you entry to the United States.
Is the US embassy in Pretoria closed?
The Consulate General of Cape Town and Durban are closed to the public every Friday, while the Consulate General of Johannesburg is closed every last Friday of the month. The US Embassy in Pretoria does not provide any visa services.
Is Travelstart affiliated with immigration authorities?
All information on this page was correct at the time of publishing and may change at any time without prior notice. Travelstart is not affiliated with immigration authorities or their application centres and will not be liable for loss or inconvenience arising from the use of this volatile information.
Where to apply for a private bag in Pretoria?
Available. (Stertesertifikaat). Applicants should apply to the Department of Home Affairs, Private Bag X114, Pretoria 0001. All applicants must furnish the full name and date of birth of the deceased and the date and place of death.
How to get a birth certificate in Pretoria?
Available. Applicants should submit their requests directly to the Department of Home Affairs, Private Bag X114, Pretoria 0001, and should request a "long-form" birth certificate, which lists the details on the parents. Applicants should also provide their full name given at birth, their date and place of birth, and both parents' names, including the mother's maiden name. The request should specify that an English language copy is desired. In cases of illegitimacy or adoption, the long-form birth certificate will not be sent directly to the applicant (for reasons of confidentiality), but will be sent to the appropriate consular post. In cases where a search reveals that the applicant's birth was never registered, a form letter to this effect will be issued.
How long is a visa valid?
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued .
What does M visa mean?
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
What are the laws of marriage in South Africa?
There are three different laws under which a marriage may be formed in South Africa: (1) the Marriage Act, 1961 , which allows for the solemnization of a civil or religious marriage between a man and a woman; (2) the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998, which allows for the registration of marriages under African customary law; and (3) the Civil Union Act, 2006, which allows for the solemnization of a civil or religious marriage or a civil partnership between two people regardless of gender, thus making same-sex marriage legal in South Africa. The legal consequences of a marriage under the Civil Union Act are the same as those of a marriage under the Marriage Act. A person may only be married under one of these laws at a time, except that a couple in a monogamous customary marriage may contract a marriage with each other under the Marriage Act.
Can an A-3 visa exceed the validity of a NATO 7 visa?
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
When does a V-2 visa expire?
Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
What determines what type of visa is required?
Many factors, such as the purpose of intended travel, will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. You also need to establish and meet all the requirements in order to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.
How to apply for an EB-5 visa?
To qualify for an EB-5 visa, you may choose to invest in one of three ways: 1 Invest $1,000,000 and hire 10 employees anywhere in the USA. 2 Invest $500,000 and hire 10 employees in an area where the unemployment rate exceeds the national average by 150% or the rural population is less than 20,000. 3 Invest $500,000 in a Regional Centre – the money is returned to the investor after 5 years with nominal interest. Like any investment, when investing in a Regional Centre project return of funds is not guaranteed.
What is an L-1 visa?
The L-1 visa is granted to people who have worked outside of the U.S. as a manager, executive, or in a position involving specialised knowledge, and are now seeking to go to the U.S. to work in a related U.S. company in same capacity.
How much investment is required for an E-2 visa?
In most cases, the investment must be at least $100,000USD.
Where is the interview scheduled for an employee in South Africa?
If the employee is already in the United States or if outside the United States, applications are filed with the National Visa Center and the employee is scheduled for an interview at the U.S. Consulate in South Africa.
Who must be a citizen of the foreign country where the company is based?
Every employee or principal of the company seeking E visa status must be a citizen of the foreign country where the company is based.
Who can use an E visa?
The E visa can be used by the company’s principals or by its employees.
How long can a US citizen stay in South Africa?
Each year more than 350,000 Americans use this scheme to visit South Africa. US citizens holding a valid national passport can enter South Africa for up to 90 days at any port of arrival.
What is an e-visa in South Africa?
The South Africa electronic visa (eVisa) for American citizens is a new digital visa that will allow visitors to enter the country for business and leisure trips without having to gain a visa from a South African embassy or consulate beforehand.
What Is a South Africa eVisa for American Citizens and What Does It Do?
The South Africa eVisa for Americans is an upcoming electronic visa system designed to allow eligible foreign nationals to apply online for authorization to enter South Africa.
When did South Africa start evisa?
In 2019 , with the aim of advancing the visa application process for visitors to the country, the South African government began piloting the South Africa eVisa scheme.
Do US citizens need a visa to visit South Africa?
US citizens planning a short-term holiday or business trip to South Africa do not currently need to gain a visa. This is because the United States is on the list of 47 countries whose citizens can enter the state via a visa exemption scheme, in accordance with South Africa’s visa policy. Each year more than 350,000 Americans use this scheme ...
Can Americans get an evisa in South Africa?
This means that American citizens are not currently able to apply for a South Africa eVisa. When it is made available to Americans, US passport holders will be able to apply for ...
How to apply for a South African visa?
Millions of tourists can now apply online easily through merely filling out an online form and submitting the required documents. South Africa tourist visa application is a quick and straightforward process that can be fulfilled from home without personally meeting the immigration officials at the local embassy. However, you must submit all the necessary documents at the time of application to ensure that your application is processed quickly and visa is issued without any delays. All applicants need to comply with the electronic visa South Africa requirements. For more information, contact our 24/7 available customer service to get in touch with our experienced visa experts. We can help you get up-to-date information about the documents you need to submit and other essential guidelines on South African visa requirements.
What is an online visa for South Africa?
A South Africa online visa, also called electronic visa or eVisa South Africa, is a digitally obtained travel authorization to travel to South Africa.
Why Visit South Africa?
South Africa is a sought-after destination in the world, both for recreation and investment purposes. It is an utterly modern country but with an exceptionally deep-rooted cultural impression. With its exquisite biodiversity, multicultural towns, pristine beaches with coastline spread over2,500km, magnificent wildlife reserves, and modern architecture, visiting South Africa should be on your bucket list for the upcoming year. Now that the government is offering the facility to apply for a visa online traveling to this African gem is no longer an issue for foreigners.